Taya Maumausolo Matagi Captures National Title as Team California Takes Fifth in 16U Women’s Division

FARGO, N.D. — Following a strong showing in the Junior ranks, Team California’s 16U Women’s squad delivered a spectacular performance of their own inside the Fargodome. Driven by an individual national championship and a deep roster of podium finishers, California secured an impressive fifth-place team finish in the 16U Women’s Division.

The Golden State demonstrated extraordinary depth across the board, producing an incredible 11 All-Americans who navigated one of the toughest high school tournaments in the country.

Maumausolo Matagi Claims Fargo Gold

The crown jewel of the tournament for Team California came at the top of the lineup. Competing at 235 pounds, Taya Maumausolo Matagi powered her way through the bracket to capture the coveted Fargo National Championship. Securing the stop sign trophy, she anchored the team’s top five finish with a dominant performance.

Adding to the family’s success, Tasi Maumausolo Matagi also battled to the podium, earning 7th place finish at 190 pounds.

Depth Across the Brackets

Beyond the championship run, California’s lineup proved formidable in multiple weight classes, particularly in the lower and middle weights. Olivia Munson secured the team’s next highest finish, battling to a stellar 3rd place run at 105 pounds.

The squad also showcased its depth by double-placing in two different weight classes. At 115 pounds, Isabella Fodera (4th) and Lillian Fonceca (6th) both secured top six finishes. Just one weight classed up at 120 pounds, Alexa Smith (5th) and Rio Rening (7th) matched that feat, racking up crucial team points.

California’s 2026 16U Women’s All-Americans

Earning a spot on the 16U podium at Fargo is a defining milestone in a young wrestler’s career. Here are the 11 athletes who brought home hardware for California:

Weight	Wrestler	Place
100 lbs	Sophia Lazaro	8th Place
105 lbs	Olivia Munson	3rd Place
115 lbs	Isabella Fodera	4th Place
115 lbs	Lillian Fonceca	6th Place
120 lbs	Alexa Smith	5th Place
120 lbs	Rio Rening	7th Place
125 lbs	Aleia Apostol	5th Place
155 lbs	Josylyn Glass	8th Place
170 lbs	Emmyjane Bragg	6th Place
190 lbs	Tasi Maumausolo Matagi	7th Place
235 lbs	Taya Maumausolo Matagi	Champion

With 11 All-Americans in the 16U division complementing the Junior squad’s success, the pipeline of talent coming out of California remains incredibly strong. These young athletes have established themselves on the national stage, signaling a bright future for the state’s high school and collegiate freestyle prospects.

Photo Courtesy – Tony Rotundo